Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has made a serious challenge to his critics, asserting that if the allegations of illegal immigration in the State are found to be false, he should be held accountable by execution. Addressing the State Assembly on August 6, Singh stated, “If the entry of illegal immigrants in Manipur is not true, the people can execute me by hanging.”
His comments come amid growing concerns about the influx of illegal immigrants into Manipur, a situation Singh has described as a “grave threat” to the indigenous population. He has called for the deportation of individuals, who entered the State after 1961, with support from the Central Government.
Singh’s remarks were prompted by a query from Naga People’s Front legislator Leishiyo Keishing, who raised the issue of escalating illegal immigration. Singh described the situation as “alarming,” citing significant demographic shifts due to this influx and the complications posed by the State’s 398-km porous border with Myanmar.
A cabinet sub-committee led by Tribal Affairs and Development Minister Letpao Haokip is investigating the matter.
According to Singh, the sub-committee, in cooperation with the Home Ministry, has identified around 2,480 illegal immigrants, though this number may change as more data becomes available. The identification of these immigrants is complicated by their integration into local communities.
Singh also noted the emergence of new villages established by illegal immigrants, some in areas difficult to access due to conflicts with the Myanmar-based People’s Defence Force (PDF). He warned that anyone aiding these immigrants would face legal action under new directives.
In a recent crackdown, 140 to 150 immigrants from Churachandpur district were detained and moved to a shelter in Imphal. Satellite imagery has revealed the development of new villages since May 3, 2023, when ethnic clashes intensified.
The CM reaffirmed that while individuals, who arrived before 1961 are regarded as indigenous, those arriving afterward should be deported to protect the State’s future. He asserted on the importance of this measure to ensure the safety and stability of both present and future generations, citing Kamjong district as having the highest number of illegal immigrants (6,199), followed by Tengnoupal (2,406) and Chandel (1,895).
